Lisa Cartwright, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) teacher at Wilshire Park Elementary School (Wilshire Park) has been nominated for the 2021 Minnesota Teacher of the Year. This is also the program’s 57th Anniversary with Education Minnesota— with a total of 75 candidates nominated.

“Lisa loves her students— she loves seeing them take on challenges by using their brains to think and their hearts to collaborate. She is a true professional who also is a teacher peer, mentoring her colleagues as a master teacher,” said Superintendent Dr. Renee Corneille.

“Even when I wasn’t working with Lisa here at Wilshire Park, I’ve known her to be a conscientious, creative, and compassionate teacher.  I think she is the essence of a warm demander which is the highest praise I can give a teacher. She has high expectations for her STEM students, and this year, for her kinders, and she surrounds them with love and support. Now that I’m here in her building, I see what a leader she is in the school community too. This award is very deserving for her”, said Wilshire Park Principal Amy Kujawski.

According to Education Minnesota, a selection panel made up of state leaders in education, business and government personnel chooses the Minnesota Teacher of the Year from those who are nominated and who then choose to become a candidate. The overall process includes a review of semifinalist submissions and final interviews. The Minnesota Teacher of the Year represents the profession as an advocate for education and spokesperson for teachers. Award winners will be expected to meet with policymakers, make presentations and attend frequent meetings. Learn more about the process.

The Minnesota Teacher of the Year banquet scheduled for May 2 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre, may be postponed due to COVID-19. Further details will be shared at a later date.

Congratulations Lisa!